Admitting to your problem gambling can be difficult. Gamblers often blame others for their problem and struggle to control it. Problem gamblers are more likely to be depressed and have other addictions. While the addiction is often hard to break, it is possible to get help and learn how to control your urges. Problem gambling is a disease and should be treated as such. Listed below are ways to help your problem gambler. Read this article for more information.
Problem gamblers are more likely to blame others
The problem of gambling is not confined to problem gamblers. Significant others of problem gamblers often experience loneliness and isolation. In some cases, spouses will try to cover up the problem, avoiding their partner’s gambling. The problem of gambling has been identified as a pervasive social harm and has an effect on the relationships of both partners. Therefore, it is vital to understand the nature of the problem and how to treat it.
The research shows that problem gamblers have higher BMIs, are more likely to be obese and engage in other unhealthy lifestyle behaviors such as smoking and excessive television viewing. Other studies have also found a correlation between gambling and substance abuse, with more than one-third of problem gamblers suffering from some form of substance abuse. It is difficult to determine the causal relationship between problem gambling and substance abuse in young problem gamblers.
They are more likely to be depressed
The research is based on a T-test to compare the mental health of gamblers in both physical and online environments. Although the research aims to compare the mental health of gamblers from both locations, it is unclear whether the two gambling environments are equivalent. One interesting difference is the way gamblers cope with stress and anxiety. While gamblers tend to cope with stress and anxiety better in physical locations, the level of depression is similar among online gamblers.
In general, studies have shown that pathological gamblers experience higher rates of depression than other gamblers. However, it is also possible that more frequent gamblers experience higher rates of depression. In a recent study, Thorson et al. examined the relationship between depression and gambling behaviors in a sample of 3,038 adults in Scotland. In the study, they administered the CES-Depression scale, which contains 20 items that assess the major symptoms of depression. The researchers followed previous studies and reported that 12.7% of the adult population had depression.
They can be addicted to other substances
While there are many factors that contribute to the addictive nature of gambling, it is not surprising that addicts also have issues with other substances. A study found that 73 percent of people with gambling disorders also had alcoholism. In addition, substance abuse can make compulsive behaviors more difficult to control, making the symptoms of gambling addiction worse. Furthermore, addicts who have alcohol problems often gamble at bars and casinos that serve alcohol.
Treatment for gambling addiction includes medical interventions. These may include medications such as Naltrexone or Buprenorphine. Families may also receive counseling to help their addicted loved one live a sober life. The aim of treatment is to help the addict stop gambling as soon as possible and to reestablish a healthy relationship. This can be a life-long process. Treatment is not only aimed at helping the addict stop gambling, but also addressing underlying problems.
They can be difficult to stop
One of the hardest aspects of stopping a problem gambling habit is getting away from the temptation to gamble. The very act of placing yourself in a high-risk situation only reinforces your commitment to keep gambling. Setting goals and celebrating positive achievements are also key to quitting the habit. You can do this by writing down the successes you’ve achieved and by exploring alternative activities. A few things you can do to help yourself stop gambling include learning about the harmful effects of gambling on your health and your relationship with others.
Identifying your triggers. People with a problem gambling habit are more likely to lose control of themselves when they’re having a bad time. When you’re going through tough times, it’s easy to feel the urge to gamble and borrow money. But simply because you’re not actively gambling anymore doesn’t mean you should go back to your old ways. You can learn from your lapse and adjust your plan accordingly.